We recently hosted a Tokyo guided tour at the beautiful Imperial Palace East Garden, and it turned out to be a truly memorable experience—even with the rain! ☔️
Thirteen English-speaking guides welcomed eighteen guests from nine different countries. Our Tokyo sightseeing tour is more than just visiting historical spots—it’s about real conversations. Guests and guides chatted about everyday Japanese life, culture, and history throughout the walk.
Rainy Days in Tokyo Can Be Magical 🌿
Although it was a rainy day, it added a special charm to the experience. The calm and quiet atmosphere made it easier to walk and enjoy the surroundings. Fewer crowds, glistening greenery, and the soft sound of raindrops created a peaceful mood that only a rainy day in Tokyo can offer. Tokyo enjoy rainy day moments like this are truly unforgettable.
Starting from Tokyo Station 🚉
Our tour began at Tokyo Station and the Marunouchi area—the heart of Japan’s modern economy. Guides explained how Japan’s modernization began 150 years ago, and guests asked thoughtful questions like:
- When did Japan get its first Prime Minister?
- How was Japan’s industrialization connected to wartime history?
- What is the university entrance exam system like in Japan?
Exploring the Imperial Palace East Garden 🏯
We then entered the East Garden, once part of Edo Castle, where samurai once lived. Guests saw watchtowers, gates, guardhouses, moats, and stone walls. Guides shared stories about Japan’s emperors, shoguns, and the lives of people during the Tokugawa period.
One fun moment was when a guest from Singapore noticed the similarity between the shachihoko (mythical fish-tiger roof ornament) and the Merlion. Both are imaginary creatures with a beast’s head and a fish’s body, spouting water from their mouths!
Curious Questions from Guests 🤔
Our guests asked many fascinating questions:
- Were ninja children also trained as ninjas?
- What do the imperial and Tokugawa family trees look like?
- How is the emperor’s succession determined?
- What were the laws and politics of the shogunate?
- What kind of stones were used in the castle walls?
- What material is the roof of the Fujimi-yagura made of?
Of course, we also talked about Japanese food, hot springs, and stories from the guests’ home countries!
A Peaceful Ending in the Ninomaru Garden 🍃
We ended the tour in the serene Ninomaru Garden, a traditional Japanese garden inside the East Garden. The rain made the garden feel even more alive—the green leaves glistened, raindrops created ripples in the pond, and the colorful koi fish seemed to swim more gracefully than usual. It was a moment of quiet beauty that sunny days just can’t replicate.
After 2.5 hours, we exited through Hirakawa Gate, feeling grateful for the shared time and stories.
We’re so happy our guests enjoyed the tour—and if you’re reading this, we hope you’ll be the next to join us!
We’re looking forward to welcoming you soon 😊
For more information about our tour, please visit our web site at
https://tfwt.jp/top/east-gardens-of-the-imperial-palace/
https://www.facebook.com/TokyoFWT
or Tokyo Free Walking Tour at https://www.tripadvisor.jp/
Posted by Masa ITO